One of Gregory's better novels 
Since there is a lot of buzz going around regarding Philippa Gregory's new novel ('The Other Queen,' scheduled for release on 9/16/08), I thought I'd post a quick review of one of her earlier novels, 'The Constant Princess.'
While there's been a lot of non-fiction books written about Henry VIII's first wife, Katherine of Aragon, there hasn't been too much written in the historical fiction arena, other than as a minor character in other novel's about Henry, Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth I, or Mary I.
This well-written novel is written from the perspective of Katherine herself. It begins with her childhood as the daughter of Isabella and Ferdinand and tells the story of her betrothal to Arthur, the eldest son of Henry VII and heir to the English throne. A beautiful love story emerges between Katherine and Arthur as they grow up together and Katherine is raised in the English court in preparation for her future role as Queen of England.
I don't want to give away any spoilers for those who are unfamiliar with Katherine's story beyond this. It's enough to say that her life took many unfortunate turns and she was very much alone in a foreign and hostile country far away from her family who eventually abandons her, too. She relied on her faith to endure and sustain her through some horrific circumstances and maintained her dignity throughout. This novel is never boring or slow....it keeps your attention and draws you into Katherine's world. She is a very sympathetic character and inspires admiration for her perseverance and dignity. I highly recommend this novel if you're just now discovering Philippa Gregory.
One of the best! 
Excellent author. I have read everything I can find with her name on it. I have never been disappointed by any. I believe it is a true gift to be able to make historical novels come to life as she does. Never dull or boring. If you love historical novels try Phillipa Gregory, you will not be disappointed.
The Constant Princess
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was just a juicy story, full of drama, backstabbing, heartache & romance. I liked Catalinas character, she was a strong woman, very naive at first, but determined. I like the love story between her and Arthur. I will be reading more of Philippa Gregory novels.
ANOTHER WINNER
TOO GOOD TO PUT DOWN. JUST CAN'T WAIT TO READ ANOTHER ONE OF GREGORY'S BOOKS. LOVE THEM ALL.
Historical Fiction about a character rarely delved into...
A good novel, good characters... well written.
The historical facts lack some of the excitement in Henry's later marriages, but this fluffy piece of historical fiction is entertaining.
This is a less juicy tale, and sometimes that less scandalous historical fiction leaves you numb with the lack of action. You take a deep breath and as the novel wraps up make a mental note to read a more factual account of the events.
There is something to be said about how quickly her recent novels are coming together. Her earlier works were disturbing, probing and eerie... as she plants her characters in history there is a change of tone.
reviews: page 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
"I am Catalina, Princess of Spain, daughter of the two greatest monarchs the world has ever known...and I will be Queen of England." Thus, bestselling author Philippa Gregory introduces one of her most unforgettable heroines: Katherine of Aragon. Daughter of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Spain, Katherine has been fated her whole life to marry Prince Arthur of England. When they meet and are married, the match becomes as passionate as it is politically expedient. The young lovers revel in each other's company and plan the England they will make together. But tragically, aged only fifteen, Arthur falls ill and extracts from his sixteen-year-old bride a deathbed promise to marry his brother, Henry; become Queen; and fulfill their dreams and her destiny. "They tell me nothing but lies here and they think they can break my spirit. I believe what I choose and say nothing. I am not as simple as I seem." Widowed and alone in the avaricious world of the Tudor court, Katherine has to sidestep her father-in-law's desire for her and convince him, and an incredulous Europe, that her marriage to Arthur was never consummated, that there is no obstacle to marriage with Henry. For seven years, she endures the treachery of spies, the humiliation of poverty, and intense loneliness and despair while she waits for the inevitable moment when she will step into the role she has prepared for all her life. Then, like her warrior mother, Katherine must take to the battlefield and save England when its old enemies the Scots come over the border and there is no one to stand against them but the new Queen. "It was my dying husband's hope, my mother's wish, and God's will that I should be Queen of England; and for them and for the country, I will be Queen of England until I die." Raised on the battlefield and in the most beautiful Moorish palace in the world, sent to England alone at the age of sixteen to take her place in a court where she couldn't speak the language, and abandoned and forced to endure poverty after the death of her husband, Katherine remained a woman of indomitable spirit, unwavering faith, and extraordinary strength. Philippa Gregory brings to life one of history's most inspiring women and creates one of the most compelling characters in historical fiction."
My Favorite Reads in Historical Romance and Historical Fiction
Favorite Novels for Teens
Great Historical Fiction
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constant princess, constant, princess
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based on 171 reviews
